Style Guide: Understanding Different Prom Dress Types

When you’re getting headshots taken, it’s usually because you’re reaching a new milestone in your schooling or career, which can be very exciting! Regardless of why you’re getting a headshot done, your headshot is going to be your first impression to fellow students, potential clients, coworkers, or employers, so it’s important to dress the part and look your best.  If all of this is overwhelming, we have you covered. In our guide, we’ll get into the basics of what to keep in mind when choosing a headshot look, as well as a few outfit ideas for photo day.  Choosing What to Wear for Headshots: Items to Consider Beforehand  What you wear for a headshot is going to depend highly on the parameters set by the person organizing the headshot, whether that’s your school, company, or just your photographer. When you’re thinking about your headshot look, keep these things in mind so you look your best.  The Reason for the Headshot Getting a headshot for a school picture has a totally different vibe than taking a headshot for your business’s website, so before anything else, think about why you’re getting the headshot and what you want the vibe to be.  If there are any parameters, like a dress code, or restricted colors and prints, keep these in mind first and foremost when choosing your headshot attire. You don’t want to keep a professional photographer waiting because you chose the wrong outfit.  Headshot Outfit Colors If your headshots are for something like school or a company photo, they may have rules on color choice. Above all, if you’re asked to wear or avoid certain colors, keep this in mind so you don’t have to change outfits the day of.  If you don’t have any color parameters to meet, generally you’ll want to go with darker hues for a sense of gravity. Be sure not to choose a color that’s too close to your hair color if you have long hair, as it all may blend together in the headshot, especially in smaller versions of the picture. You can also ask your photographer if certain colors look better on camera versus others.  If your headshot is for your business or your own website, you’ll want to keep your brand in mind. You don’t have to wear the same exact colors, but consistency is always a good thing. More creative headshots offer more creative color choices, especially if your brand or aesthetic has more pastels or jewel tones.  What’s Comfortable and Fits Well  You don’t want to be uncomfortable on any day involving a lot of photographs; even if you’re a great actor, it'll likely show on your face. Alongside this, you (unfortunately) can’t wear your baggiest sweatsuit to a headshot shoot and expect to look professional. You’ll need to find a balance between looking good and feeling good.  Try your planned headshot outfit on ahead of time to make sure it’s comfortable enough and fits nicely on your body. Clothing that’s too loose may wrinkle oddly in the pictures, and clothing that’s too tight may look awkward and be uncomfortable. Be sure to iron or steam your outfit (at least the top portion) so you look crisp and professional.  If there’s a mandatory outfit for your headshot and it’s not the most comfortable look, bring a more comfortable outfit that you can change into after your photo shoot. You can also plan on arriving at your photoshoot location early in comfortable clothes and then changing into your headshot outfit, but do be sure to plan carefully.  Headshot Outfit Ideas Below, we give you our top outfit ideas based on the type of headshot you’re taking, so you can dress your best.  School Headshot Ideas It’s popular for schools to have you take headshots for senior pictures. If you don’t have an assigned outfit to wear, it’s a great idea to choose something that shows your personality a bit.  These headshots don’t typically have to be as formal as other headshots, so you can get a little creative. A dress or blouse with an interesting neckline, when paired with a demure necklace, can really pop. If you have to go more formal, a button-down shirt in a solid color like black or navy will work perfectly.  If you go with separates, you can pair your top with a pair of jeans or a comfortable skirt to ensure that you look confident and relaxed in your pictures. This will also help if you’re waiting a bit for other students to have their photos taken, or if you’re taking pictures at more than one location.  Formal or Corporate Career Headshot Outfit Ideas For a more corporate headshot, you can’t go wrong with a crisp, well-fitting long-sleeved button-down shirt and a blazer. Solid colored shirts like white, navy, or light blue tend to work well for more corporate environments, with white and navy being more formal and light blue being slightly more relaxed.  When wearing a button-down shirt, it can be helpful to undo one or two buttons of your collar to elongate your neck in the photo, as long as you’re comfortable with that.  A dress paired with a blazer can also be a good choice for a corporate headshot, though always be sure the neckline will work and that it’s a solid color. For dresses, you’ll definitely want to stick with darker tones like navy, deep purple, or dark green to keep it professional, even if you plan on topping your look with a blazer.  Creative Career Headshot Outfit Ideas If you own your own business or you’re in a more creative field, you can have a bit more fun with your headshot outfit choice. Keep in mind, though, that pastels and very bold colors may be distracting for a headshot since the focus is meant to be on your face. Think about muted, darker tones for best results, and avoid prints.  Layers can be a great way of showing a bit of personality while still keeping your look polished. Be sure to put lighter colors underneath darker ones (a white shirt underneath a forest green sweater, for example).  Long sleeves will be less distracting, but if your career calls for it, shorter sleeves may be appropriate. Chat with your photographer about ideal sleeve lengths, and bring a sweater or backup shirt if you’re not sure.  Bridal or Wedding Headshot Outfit Ideas Bridal headshots are becoming more popular for engagement announcements, for wedding websites, and more. If you’re getting wedding headshots done on the big day, don’t worry too much about styling, as you’ll already be in your wedding look.  If you want to get some headshots done for your wedding website, keep minimal makeup and an elegant, non-fussy hairstyle in mind.  For headshots taking place before the wedding, you can wear your wedding dress as a sneak peek. However, if you’d rather keep that under wraps, go with a dress or blouse that’s the same color as your wedding look. You can even look for details that are similar to your dress, like pearls if they’re included or similar-looking lace.  How to Accessorize Your Headshot Outfit Keep accessories minimal, especially in the area that’s being photographed. Metallic necklaces, earrings, and bracelets will all capture the light and may distract from the rest of your headshot, especially if they’re statement pieces. Also, choose one focal point, as it may look a little much to have a pendant necklace, an eye-catching bracelet, and dangly earrings.  When it comes to your makeup, the more natural, the better. Bold eyes or lips sometimes don’t photograph well and may distract from the rest of your face in a headshot. You also run the risk of your photo looking dated as trends change. Avoid any makeup that’s shimmery, dewy, or glowy, as this may capture the light awkwardly in your photograph.  Looking Your Best for Your Headshots It can be intimidating to plan out what to wear for a headshot, but it doesn’t have to be. If you have any questions about attire, always feel free to reach out to your photographer for advice. 

There was a time when baby showers were simple gatherings with finger sandwiches, cheesy games, and guests showing up in whatever they wore that day. Today, they have become social events complete with photos, stories, and tags, with at least one group picture destined to live on Instagram forever. Putting careful thought into what to wear to a baby shower as a guest will make sure you feel confident and perfectly dressed for the occasion, and avoid any sense of being out of place. This guide explains how to show up looking like you understood the assignment.  First Things First, Decode the Vibe Is it a backyard brunch with iced lattes and linen tablecloths, a laid-back gathering in a garden, a tea party inspired by soft pastels, or a cozy at-home shower with a relaxed, intimate vibe?   The location, time of day, and the invite design usually tell you everything you need to know. The host’s personality, taste, and energy can also influence how dressed up (or down) the event feels. Once you pick up on those signals, getting dressed becomes easier and way less stressful. Season also plays a huge role. Spring and summer showers call for breezy fabrics and fresh colors, while fall and winter allow you to play with richer textures and cozy layers. What to Wear to a Baby Shower as a Guest: Outfit Ideas by Baby Shower Venue and Dress Code When picking the right outfit, the goal is to look good without trying too hard. Below, we’ve put together some ideas on how to dress for different baby shower settings.      Casual Baby Shower (Backyard, Living Room, Low-Key Brunch) The biggest mistake people make here is assuming “casual” means zero effort. It doesn’t. Casual baby shower outfits should still look put together, just not overdone. Flowy sundresses, relaxed midi dresses, cute rompers, or wide-leg trousers paired with a pretty top work perfectly because they look effortlessly stylish. Go for light fabrics, simple prints, and breathable silhouettes that let you move, sit, eat, and laugh comfortably. When it comes to footwear, cute flats or low wedges are the practical choice. You want something you can actually stand in while chatting without secretly counting the minutes until you can sit down. Accessories should be minimal to complement the outfit, not compete with it. Think small hoops, a delicate necklace, or a casual crossbody bag that makes it look effortless, even if a lot of thought went into it.                     Dressy Casual Baby Shower (Café, Small Venue) This is the baby shower where everyone looks like they put some thought into their outfits, and you immediately know jeans were the wrong choice. It’s usually hosted at a café or an intimate venue with lighting and ambiance that make your outfit feel worth the extra effort. Midi or tea-length dresses are always a safe bet because they’re comfortable and flattering for literally every body type. If dresses aren’t your thing, a jumpsuit will make you look polished from head to toe without much effort. You could also go for a matching pants-and-blouse set for a chic look. If you want to look sharper, pair a high-waisted skirt with a fitted top and blazer. Regardless of your outfit, make sure you choose the right fabric. Satin, crepe, chiffon, structured cotton, and soft knits all photograph beautifully and elevate even simple silhouettes. Finish the look with block heels, wedges, or stylish sandals, a mini or shoulder bag, gold-toned jewelry, and a sleek hairstyle. Semi-Formal Baby Shower (Restaurant Private Room, Rooftop, Fancy Setting) You’ll know this vibe when you see it. Private dining rooms, rooftop views, statement décor, and a host who loves a moment require your outfit to rise to the occasion. You can’t go wrong with a cocktail-style dress with a halter neckline or empire waist. Just make sure it’s not too short or overly shiny. A dressy jumpsuit with a clean neckline also looks completely on-theme for a semi-formal setting. And of course, a tailored blazer-and-pants ensemble never fails to impress. A semi-formal event is basically your time to rock draped fabrics and subtle details like ruching or wrap styles with confidence. Match your outfit with a nice pair of heels, slingbacks, or fancy flats, along with statement earrings and a classic clutch, and you’re good to go.  Garden Party/Outdoor Baby Shower An outdoor setting, like a garden party, means you’re dressing for sunshine, shade, grass, and the very real possibility of wind. While flowy dresses are the obvious choice for such an event, make sure yours isn’t too flowy unless you’re okay fighting the breeze all afternoon. Anything shorter than a midi is also more trouble than it’s worth outdoors. If the weather is hot, choose lightweight fabrics like chiffon, cotton, or linen, so you can actually enjoy being outside. The tailoring also matters. The last thing you’ll want on a sunny day is for your outfit to feel restrictive. If the event stretches into the evening and the weather is pleasant, you’ll want to wear a long-sleeve dress or have a light cardigan or wrap on hand. When it comes to prints, florals, soft hues, and delicate patterns look beautiful in natural light. Any accessories you wear should stay secure (avoid fussy hairpieces or dangling items that might catch the wind). Skip the stilettos and go for wedges, block heels, or pretty flats that won’t sink into the grass and have you walking awkwardly on uneven ground.  What Not to Wear Sometimes knowing what not to wear to a baby shower as a guest is just as important as knowing what works.  Anything Too Extra A baby shower isn’t a girls’ night, a red-carpet moment, or a full-blown wedding guest situation, so dressing like it is will be your biggest mistake. Skip anything overly revealing, super tight, or nightclub-ready. This isn’t the right occasion for plunging necklines, super-short skirts, bodycon dresses, or sheer fabrics that leave little to the imagination.  Anything Uncomfortable If you can’t sit down, bend, eat, move around, or breathe in your outfit, what’s the point? Baby showers usually involve long periods of sitting, mingling, games, and gift-opening, which means overly stiff fabrics, tight corsets, and dresses that constantly need adjusting will only stress you out.   Anything That Competes With the Guest of Honor All-white outfits are tricky unless the invitation specifically calls for it, as many moms-to-be choose white or very light neutrals for their special day. Similarly, loud prints, neon colors, bold cutouts, heavy sequins, or statement looks that feel more suited for a party where you are the main event are best avoided.  Anything Too Casual Overly casual outfits like ripped jeans, graphic tees, athletic sneakers, or lounge sets also need to stay in your closet. They’ll come off as careless and perhaps even disrespectful, even if the event is laid-back.  Anything Too Dark Head-to-toe black, deep charcoal, or very dark jewel tones can feel heavy and too serious for a daytime celebratory event. These colors also tend to photograph more harshly in bright lighting, especially alongside floral décor and pastel details.  Now You Know What to Wear to a Baby Shower as a Guest A baby shower is a special, heartwarming occasion, and your outfit should reflect that energy. You’re there to show up for someone you care about, celebrate a new chapter with them, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime. Your outfit should make you feel confident, comfortable, and true to your personal style. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows in how you carry yourself, how you interact with others, and how much you actually enjoy the event.    

Have you been invited to the Kentucky Derby, or a viewing party for it, and you have no idea what to wear? Are you old hat at derbies, but you’re looking to refresh your derby wardrobe? Regardless, we have you covered. Derby attire may seem like an intimidating dress code or party theme, but luckily, there’s lots of room for fun. One of the hallmarks of derby fashion is that it matches timelessness with a modern twist and makes lots of room for whimsy, from the typical color schemes to the glamorous hats.  In our style guide, we break down the ins and outs of derby attire and give you a few outfit ideas to help you get started on your research. Let’s dive in!  Where Did Derby Attire Come From? Generally, when the phrase “derby attire” comes up, it’s in reference to the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby has had a specific aesthetic since its inception in the 1870s. Taking place in Louisville (Kentucky, obviously) in the spring, derby fashion is influenced heavily by timeless Southern styles and the season; think seersucker, pastels, and linen.  Derby attire can incorporate current trends with these influences, and attendees are encouraged to play with silhouettes for a whimsical vibe. As for a dress code, the Kentucky Derby doesn’t have one, but the general expectation is to dress to impress.  Other derbies may have different expectations for derby attire, ranging from a casual vibe to something closer to a cocktail dress code. Before attending your derby, you’ll want to consult the website to ensure you choose something appropriate.  Derby Attire Outfit Ideas  Looking for some inspiration for your derby attire outfit? Whether you’ve got a ticket to the Kentucky Derby or you’re headed to a derby-themed party, here are our top derby attire outfit ideas Short Solid-Color Dresses as Derby Attire A shorter cocktail-style dress can be perfect for the warm afternoon of the derby. If you’re planning on attending the Kentucky Derby, you may want to go for a dress that hits at least the knee for comfort. If you’re attending a viewing party, a shorter dress can definitely work.  Short Printed Dresses as Derby Attire When you’re going with a short printed dress as derby attire, you may want to consider sticking with the pastel color scheme. If you’re looking to stand out from the crowd, incorporate a jewel tone or a darker color in your print.  Midi Dresses as Derby Attire The midi sheath dress is a classic choice for the Kentucky Derby, since the hemline offers springtime sophistication. Pastels balance the structured elegance of the sheath look, and a matching big hat adds a touch of whimsy. If you tend to get chilly, pair this look with a cardigan or cape.  Maxi Dresses as Derby Attire Longer dresses aren’t as common at the Kentucky Derby, but they can still fit right in, especially in a printed pastel. Be sure that your dress is the correct length with the shoes you plan on wearing so you avoid tripping over your gown.  Rompers as Derby Attire Rompers can be a great choice for any springtime or summertime derby. For a Kentucky Derby vibe, go with pastels; for a lower-key derby experience choose a neutral for easier accessorizing or a bold color to stand out.  Two Piece Sets as Derby Attire A two piece set with a cropped top may turn some heads at a Kentucky Derby party. This look can also be perfect for derbies with a less-elevated dress code, especially in the warmer-weather months. Suits as Derby Attire Pastel suits are a classic Kentucky Derby choice, especially in sky blue. Linen is a great choice for these suits (as long as you don’t mind the wrinkles you’ll get from sitting) since it’s light and breathable for the spring weather.  Accessorizing Your Derby Attire One of the cornerstones of Kentucky Derby attire is a big hat that goes with the rest of your outfit. This is in part to help attendees with the sun during the afternoon, but they’ve also become really iconic for their aesthetic alone. For an outfit that truly screams Kentucky Derby, definitely keep your headwear in mind.  Since derbies take place during the afternoon, even if you’re not attending the Kentucky Derby, consider a hat or another form of sun protection to keep yourself comfortable. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses can make or break your viewing experience.  You’ll also want to be careful about your shoe choice, since the event takes place outside and you may be sitting in bleachers. Cute flats that complement your look will be the most comfortable choice, but if you’d rather wear heels, you may want to choose wedges or a thick block heel to avoid any missteps.  What to Avoid Wearing to a Derby  When it comes to what to avoid wearing to a derby or derby party, you’ll generally want to avoid going way too formal or way too casual. For the Kentucky Derby (or a Kentucky Derby-influenced party), dressing whimsically but to impress is the name of the game.  Avoid any clothes that are stained, torn, or overly casual, like jeans. You’ll also want to keep the ball gown and tuxedo at home, unless you’re really looking to turn heads.  When choosing your derby (or derby party) outfit, you’ll also want to consider how comfortable it is to sit in for a long period of time. Along with this, select shoes you feel comfortable moving in at the venue where your derby takes place, and avoid shoes that make you feel wobbly.  Is There a Difference Between Derby Attire for Kentucky Derby and Derby Attire for a Party?  In short, not really. Generally, derby-themed parties reference the quirky dress code that the Kentucky Derby offers, so anything that you would wear to the Kentucky Derby, you can wear to a derby-themed party.  Going to an indoor viewing party does have the added bonus of attendees not having to worry as much about practical accessories like sun protection. However, a big, glamorous hat can be fun and pull together your outfit.  If your viewing party is for a different derby, you’ll want to look at the dress code provided or talk to the organizers about specifics.  Dressing for Your Derby Dreams A dress code like derby attire can be a bit stressful to navigate, especially if it’s not something you’re used to dressing for. However, an offbeat dress code can also offer an opportunity for fun experimentation and personal style development! When in doubt, take pointers from our guide, do a little derby fashion research, and create a moodboard so you can put together a look that reflects your personal style.